video: Airbus A330-900 gets EASA certification

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Toulouse - The Airbus A330-900 has received its type certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency ( EASA ), preparing for entry into service with TAP Air Portugal.

Announced by the European aircraft manufacturer on September 26, the type certification should be followed soon by that of the FAA. In agreement with the launch company TAP Air Portugal, the first device produced for the carrier (MSN1819) has served as a demonstrator for endurance tests that have been carried out in more than 12 countries around the world.

The pre-certification flight test campaign was successfully completed after some 1400 hours accumulated by this aircraft and the two more A330-900 used for testing purposes.

The A330neo embodies Airbus’ spirit of innovation. This new generation aircraft with unparalleled efficiency and flexibility from short to long-haul routes has tremendous market potential,

said Airbus Commercial Aircraft president Guillaume Faury in a statement.

The Portuguese national airline has placed an order for 21 A330neo. They will be configured to accommodate 34 passengers in Business class and 264 in Economy.

Airbus' next-generation A330neo family consists of the A330-900 (224 orders to date) and the smaller variant A330-800, which will make its first flight in the coming weeks.

The A330-900 has the lowest SPK (seat per kilometer cost) in the 300-seat class thanks to its Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines and its newly optimized wing structure made of lighter composite materials including new elongated winglets.

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As a result of all these improvements, the A330-900 consumes 25% less fuel compared to previous generation widebodies of the same capacity. On the other hand, passengers will enjoy the new "Airspace by Airbus" cabin concept, with new side panels, more spacious seats, and luggage compartments, more light and the latest technology entertainment systems with the broadband internet connection.

Airbus recalls from an operational point of view that the 95 percent commonality between the A330neo and current A330 variants requires the same type rating which helps to reduce the pilot training costs. Maintenance personnel will also benefit from Skywise's new data connectivity features that will help them anticipate potential problems before they occur, ensuring the maximum cost-effectiveness of the aircraft during commercial operation.

Certified ✔️! The #A330-900 has been granted certification by @EASA. This amazing aircraft is now ready to deliver unparalleled levels of efficiency to airlines and outstanding comfort to passengers. Discover what it takes to test a true new generation aircraft... ✈️ #A330neopic.twitter.com/AGRoqSqJu0